Witches Hat

Overview

Nestled atop Mount Penn in Reading, PA, Witches Hat Park offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and outdoor adventure. Centered around its iconic handmade stone pavilion—affectionately dubbed the “Witches Hat”—this park invites hikers, bikers, climbers, and sightseers to explore nearly 20 miles of trails, soak in panoramic city views, and step back into the area’s 19th-century legacy. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise over the Pagoda or pursuing an adrenaline-packed rappel off craggy rock faces, Witches Hat delivers an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Getting There & Accessibility

Arriving at Witches Hat can require a bit of planning. Parking options are limited and unsigned, so visitors often recommend scouting nearby residential streets or small lots in advance. As one guest noted, “Parking was not very easy from the area that we used, so maybe research that when heading out to take a look.” Minimal signage along the approach roads means GPS coordinates and local directions are your best friend. Once on site, however, a modest gravel lot places you just steps away from the main trailhead.

Trails & Signage

The park’s network of wooded paths ranges from gentle, well-marked loops to steeper, more adventurous routes. Early stretches of the trailbs are often clearly posted with wayfinding markers, guiding you through dense oak and hemlock stands. Near the pavilion, though, markers can grow sparse: “The trail was well marked where I started but when I got to the witches hat it got vague.” For those seeking shortcuts, heed caution—rogue cuts across rocky terrain have been described as “super dangerous.” A reliable map or a trail app will help you stay on course and discover the park’s hidden corners safely.

Points of Interest & Views

Reaching the stone pavilion is rewarded with sweeping city vistas that have become Witches Hat’s signature highlight. From its circular lookout, you can spy the distinctive silhouette of the Pagoda perched on high, the glittering downtown skyline, and the Kittatinny ridges rolling into the horizon. Multiple reviewers describe it as “great views of the city of Reading PA and The Pagoda” and “a wonderful view of the pagoda as well!” On clear days, the sun setting over the Susquehanna Valley transforms the pavilion into a golden amphitheater—an absolute must for photographers and sunset chasers.

Recreational Activities

Beyond hiking, Witches Hat Park doubles as a multi-sport playground. Mountain bikers rave about challenging singletrack loops, while rock climbers and rappellers flock to the park’s natural cliffs. “There is even a nice place for rappelling and a little top-rope climbing!” enthused one adventurer. Climbers appreciate the adjacent rock faces that lend themselves to beginner to intermediate routes, while riders tackle tight switchbacks on rugged trails. No matter your sport of choice, the park’s varied terrain offers an exciting canvas for year-round outdoor fun.

Wildlife & Natural Surroundings

The park’s lush woodlands and seasonal meadows create ideal habitats for deer, foxes, hawks, and a kaleidoscope of wildflowers in bloom. Many guests treasure these wildlife encounters—“plus we seen gorgeous deer out there” and “saw a fox” on a sun-dappled afternoon. Birdwatchers can often spot red-tailed hawks circling overhead, while early spring yields carpets of trillium and mayapple. With minimal development beyond the pavilion and trail system, Witches Hat maintains a quietly wild atmosphere that reconnects visitors to Reading’s natural heritage.

Historical Atmosphere & Ambiance

Built in 1905 by the Reading Railroad, the rock pavilion once entertained guests of a grand hilltop resort and sanitarium. Today, its sturdy stone walls and peaked roof evoke a bygone era. Visitors speak of an almost haunting sense of history: “It’s interesting to imagine how past generations may have enjoyed this pavilion when the hotel and sanitarium were still standing.” Even the graffiti and weathered wooden planks add a layer of character—proof that the structure has weathered over a century of storms, visitors, and stories.

Maintenance & Visitor Tips

While the pavilion’s craftsmanship impresses, maintenance varies. Some guests note litter or spray-paint inscriptions—“Too bad there is so much graffiti, but the building was awesome!”—reminding newcomers that this historic site thrives when respected. Leave no trace, pack out any trash, and steer clear of fragile rock surfaces. Given limited parking and occasional trail confusion, plan your visit during weekdays or early mornings for a quieter, more contemplative experience. Don’t forget sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the vista that makes Witches Hat a gem in Reading’s outdoor crown.

Final Thoughts

Witches Hat Park is more than a local landmark—it’s a living tapestry of scenic overlooks, recreational thrills, and storied pasts. Despite the parking quirks and occasional signage gaps, the payoff is unmatched: sweeping skyline panoramas, rock-climbing adventures, close-up wildlife sightings, and a handcrafted stone pavilion that whispers tales of 19th-century elegance. For anyone seeking a memorable outdoor excursion within easy reach of Reading, PA, Witches Hat stands ready to enchant.